Laos Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Laos, officially the Lao People's Democratic Republic, welcomes international visitors through several land border crossings and international airports, with Wattay International Airport in Vientiane being the primary gateway. The country has implemented a relatively straightforward visa system that includes visa-on-arrival facilities for most nationalities, e-visa options, and visa-free entry for select ASEAN nations. Entry requirements are generally accessible for tourists, though travelers should ensure their passports have at least six months validity beyond their intended stay. The immigration process in Laos is typically efficient, particularly at major entry points like Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridges. Visitors should be prepared with passport photos, visa fees in US dollars, and proof of onward travel. While bureaucratic procedures are generally straightforward, some remote border crossings may have limited facilities and longer processing times. Understanding the entry requirements specific to your nationality and having all necessary documentation prepared in advance will ensure a smooth arrival experience. Travelers should note that Laos maintains traditional immigration practices, and all foreign visitors must comply with registration requirements. The country has been gradually modernizing its visa systems, including the introduction of e-visa services, making travel planning more convenient. However, regulations can change, and some border crossings have specific restrictions, so verifying current requirements through official channels before departure is essential.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Laos offers multiple visa options depending on nationality, including visa-free entry for ASEAN citizens, visa-on-arrival for most nationalities, and e-visa services. The majority of international visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at designated entry points.

Visa-Free Entry

14-30 days depending on nationality

Citizens of ASEAN member states and select other countries can enter without a visa

Includes

Brunei (14 days) Cambodia (30 days) Indonesia (30 days) Malaysia (30 days) Myanmar (14 days) Philippines (30 days) Singapore (30 days) Thailand (30 days) Vietnam (30 days) Japan (15 days) South Korea (15 days) Luxembourg (15 days) Switzerland (15 days) Mongolia (30 days)

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Visa-free periods are not extendable and travelers must have proof of onward travel. Requirements may vary, so verify current status before travel.

Visa on Arrival

30 days (can be extended)

Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at international airports and major land border crossings

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand All EU member states India China Russia Most other nationalities not listed as visa-free

How to Apply: Complete arrival card on plane or at border, present passport with 6 months validity, one passport photo, and visa fee. Processing typically takes 15-30 minutes at airports, longer at land borders.
Cost: USD $30-42 depending on nationality (US citizens: $35, Canadians: $42, most Europeans: $30). Cash payment required, preferably US dollars. Some border posts may accept Thai baht but at unfavorable rates.

Available at Wattay International Airport (Vientiane), Luang Prabang International Airport, Pakse International Airport, and most international land border crossings. Bring 1-2 passport photos; photos can usually be taken on-site for additional fee ($1-2). Overtime fees may apply outside business hours.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

30 days (single entry)

Online visa application available for citizens of most countries as alternative to visa on arrival

How to Apply: Apply online through official Lao e-visa portal (www.laoevisa.gov.la) at least 3 working days before travel. Upload digital passport photo and passport bio page. Approval typically within 3 business days. Print approved e-visa and present upon arrival.
Cost: USD $50 (includes $45 visa fee plus $5 service fee). Payment by credit/debit card.

E-visa valid for entry through Wattay International Airport (Vientiane), Luang Prabang International Airport, Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I (Vientiane), and Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge II (Savannakhet). Not valid at all border crossings. Recommended for travelers who want visa confirmed before arrival.

Embassy Visa

30-60 days depending on visa type

Traditional visa application through Lao embassy or consulate abroad

How to Apply: Apply at nearest Lao embassy or consulate with completed application form, passport, photos, and fee. Processing typically 3-5 business days. Useful for longer stays, business visas, or if entering through remote border crossings without visa-on-arrival facilities.

Recommended for nationalities with limited visa-on-arrival access, those requiring business or other non-tourist visas, or travelers entering through minor border crossings. Some nationalities from Africa and Middle East may be required to obtain visa in advance.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in Laos, travelers proceed through immigration control where documents are verified, visas are issued or checked, and entry stamps are provided. The process is generally straightforward at major entry points, though patience may be required during peak times or at smaller border crossings.

Arrival Card Completion

Complete the arrival/departure card distributed on international flights or available at border crossings. Fill in personal details, passport information, purpose of visit, and accommodation address in Laos. Keep the departure portion with your passport.

Document Preparation

Before reaching the immigration counter, have ready: passport (valid 6+ months), arrival card, passport photos (if obtaining visa on arrival), visa fee in cash, and any supporting documents like hotel bookings or return tickets.

Visa Payment (if applicable)

At airports and major crossings, there may be a separate visa payment counter before immigration. Pay the appropriate fee, receive a receipt, and proceed to immigration. Some crossings handle payment and processing together.

Immigration Counter

Present passport, arrival card, visa receipt (if applicable), and any additional documents to the immigration officer. Officer will verify information, process visa (if needed), and stamp passport with entry date and permitted stay duration.

Baggage Claim and Customs

Collect checked luggage (at airports) and proceed to customs. Declare any items exceeding duty-free allowances or restricted items. Most travelers pass through the green 'nothing to declare' channel without inspection.

Exit Airport/Border

After clearing customs, exit to arrivals area. At Vientiane and Luang Prabang airports, official taxi counters and currency exchange are available. At land borders, transportation options vary by location.

Documents to Have Ready

Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay and have at least 2 blank pages for stamps. Damaged passports may be refused entry.

Passport Photos

1-2 recent passport-sized photos (4x6 cm) required for visa on arrival. Photos available at airports/borders for small fee if forgotten. E-visa applicants need digital photo.

Visa Fee (Cash)

US dollars preferred and often required. Exact amount recommended as change may not be available. Some borders accept Thai baht but at poor exchange rates. Credit cards generally not accepted for visa on arrival.

Proof of Onward Travel

Return or onward ticket may be requested, especially for visa-free entries. Can be flight booking, bus ticket, or other transportation proof showing departure from Laos.

Accommodation Details

Address of first night accommodation required on arrival card. Hotel booking confirmation may be requested but rarely checked. Having name and address of hotel is sufficient.

E-visa Approval (if applicable)

Printed copy of approved e-visa required. Electronic version on phone may not be accepted. Carry multiple copies as backup.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive with exact visa fee in US dollars to avoid exchange rate issues or inability to pay. ATMs are available after immigration at major airports.

Bring multiple passport photos as they're required for visa on arrival and may be needed for other purposes during your stay. Quality varies at border photo services.

Check which border crossings accept visa on arrival, as not all international borders offer this service. E-visas are only valid at select entry points.

Keep your departure card safe with your passport throughout your stay - you'll need to surrender it when leaving Laos. Loss may result in fines or delays.

Immigration officers may not speak extensive English at smaller crossings. Having accommodation address written in English and Lao script can be helpful.

Allow extra time at land borders, especially during holidays or weekends, as processing can be slower and facilities more limited than at airports.

Dress respectfully when entering Laos. While not strictly enforced, conservative dress (covered shoulders and knees) is appreciated and may facilitate smoother processing.

Verify your entry stamp shows the correct number of permitted days. Overstaying results in fines of USD $10 per day and potential difficulties with future travel.

Customs & Duty-Free

Lao customs regulations are relatively standard for Southeast Asia, with duty-free allowances for personal items and restrictions on certain goods. Most tourists carrying reasonable personal belongings pass through customs without issues, but understanding prohibited and restricted items helps avoid problems.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or wine

Must be 18 years or older. Excessive amounts may be confiscated or subject to duty.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are technically illegal in Laos, though enforcement varies.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency, but amounts over USD $2,000 equivalent must be declared

Lao Kip over 500,000 LAK must be declared. Keep declaration form if bringing large amounts to show when departing. Undeclared amounts may be confiscated.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and goods up to USD $500 value

Items for personal use during stay are duty-free. Commercial quantities subject to customs duties and import regulations.

Perfume

Reasonable quantity for personal use (typically up to 100ml)

Excessive amounts may be considered commercial and subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Laos has extremely strict drug laws with severe penalties including lengthy imprisonment and death penalty for trafficking
Weapons and ammunition - Including firearms, explosives, knives (except small pocket knives), martial arts weapons, and replica weapons
Pornographic materials - Magazines, videos, or digital content deemed pornographic or obscene
Counterfeit goods - Fake branded items, pirated media, counterfeit currency
Items depicting or insulting Buddhism or Lao culture - Materials considered disrespectful to religion or national symbols
Gambling devices - Including playing cards in some contexts, though enforcement varies
E-cigarettes and vaping devices - Officially banned in Laos, though enforcement is inconsistent

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - Bring only necessary amounts with doctor's prescription and medication in original packaging. Certain medications legal elsewhere may be controlled in Laos
Antiques and Buddha images - Export of antiques, religious artifacts, and Buddha images strictly controlled. Special permits required and many items cannot be exported
Wildlife and wildlife products - Protected species, ivory, animal parts, and certain plants prohibited under CITES. Severe penalties for smuggling
Drones and radio equipment - Require special permits. Drones particularly restricted and may be confiscated without proper authorization
Professional camera/video equipment - Commercial filming equipment may require permits and customs documentation
Satellite phones and certain communications equipment - May require permits or be restricted

Health Requirements

Laos does not currently require proof of vaccination for most travelers, with the exception of yellow fever vaccination certificates for those arriving from yellow fever endemic countries. However, several vaccinations are recommended for health protection during your visit.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries in Africa or South America. Must show valid yellow fever vaccination certificate (valid 10 days after vaccination for life). Countries include most of sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date on routine vaccines including MMR, DPT, polio, and seasonal influenza
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers as transmission occurs through contaminated food and water
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends/relatives
Hepatitis B - Recommended for most travelers, especially those who might have medical procedures, get tattoos/piercings, or have sexual contact
Japanese Encephalitis - Recommended for travelers spending extended time in rural areas, especially during rainy season or for long-term stays
Rabies - Consider for travelers with extensive outdoor/rural activities, working with animals, or limited access to medical care
Malaria prophylaxis - Recommended for some rural areas. Consult travel health clinic for current recommendations based on your itinerary

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended but not required for entry. Medical facilities in Laos are limited, especially outside major cities, and serious conditions require evacuation to Thailand or beyond. Ensure your policy covers adventure activities if trekking, kayaking, or participating in other activities. Keep policy documents and emergency contact numbers accessible.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 related entry requirements have been removed as of 2023, but verify current health requirements before travel as policies can change. Check your government's travel health website and consult a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original packaging with prescriptions. Consider carrying a basic medical kit including anti-diarrheal medication, pain relievers, and first aid supplies.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Vientiane for citizen services and emergencies

Register with your embassy before travel. Most embassies located in Vientiane; consular services may be limited. Check your government's travel advisory website for current Laos travel advice and embassy contact details.

Immigration Department

Lao Immigration Department - For visa extensions and immigration matters

Main office in Vientiane near Morning Market. Provincial immigration offices in major cities for visa extensions. Bring passport photos and fees for extensions. Website: www.immigration.gov.la (Lao language primarily)

E-Visa Portal

Official Lao e-Visa website: www.laoevisa.gov.la

For online visa applications. Beware of unofficial third-party websites charging higher fees.

Emergency Services

Emergency number in Laos: 1191 (general emergency), 1190 (police), 1195 (fire), 1195 (ambulance)

Emergency services are limited and response times vary. English may not be spoken. In medical emergencies, contact your embassy or go directly to international clinic/hospital. Tourist Police: 021-251-128 in Vientiane.

Tourist Information

Lao National Tourism Administration

Tourist information offices in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and other major destinations. Website: www.tourismlaos.org for general travel information.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport regardless of age. If traveling with one parent or without parents, carry notarized letter of consent from absent parent(s) authorizing travel, including parent contact details and copy of their ID. Recommended even if not always checked. Adoption or custody papers should be carried if applicable. Children subject to same visa requirements as adults but same fees apply. Ensure children's passports have 6 months validity.

Traveling with Pets

Pets require: valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days before travel but within 12 months), health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 10 days of travel, import permit from Lao Department of Livestock and Fisheries (apply in advance), microchip identification recommended. Pets must enter through Wattay International Airport in Vientiane. Quarantine requirements vary based on origin country. Some breeds may be restricted. Process is complex; contact Lao embassy and consider using pet relocation service. Airlines have separate requirements for pet transport.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas can be extended once for up to 30 additional days at immigration offices in provincial capitals (total maximum 60 days). Extension costs USD $2 per day. Apply at least 3 days before current visa expires. Bring passport, passport photos, and fees. For stays beyond tourist visa limits, consider: business visa (requires sponsoring company/organization), student visa (requires enrollment in recognized institution), or retirement visa (limited availability, specific requirements). Overstaying results in USD $10 per day fine plus potential entry ban. For long-term stays, exit and re-enter, though repeated tourist visas may raise questions.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can enter on tourist visa for short business meetings, conferences, or site visits. For employment or extended business activities, business visa (B-visa) required, sponsored by Lao company or organization. Business visa application requires: invitation letter from Lao sponsor, company registration documents, passport photos, and fees. Business visas can be single or multiple entry, valid 30 days to 1 year. Work permit separate requirement for employment. Consult Lao embassy or business sponsor for specific requirements.

Dual Nationals

Use same passport for entry and exit. If holding Lao citizenship, must enter on Lao passport. Lao authorities may not recognize dual nationality. Other countries may require entering on their passport. Check requirements of both countries. Some nationalities cannot hold dual citizenship with Laos.

Journalists and Media

Professional journalists and media crews require special permits and accreditation from Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism. Apply well in advance through Lao embassy. Tourist visas insufficient for professional media work. Unauthorized journalism can result in deportation or prosecution. Casual photography for personal use permitted, but sensitive locations (military, government buildings) restricted.